While most folks might be familiar with the sitar thanks to Ravi Shankar, the rudra veena—a more complex and rarely recorded Indian string instrument—remains largely unknown to the global audience. Madhuvanti Pal’s The Holy Mother (Plays The Rudra Veena) isn’t just musically stunning but historically significant — it’s the first vinyl LP featuring a woman playing the rudra veena.
What’s fascinating is that despite the rudra veena being heavily male-dominated in recent centuries, the earliest depictions of it in ancient scriptures and temple carvings show women playing the instrument. Madhuvanti Pal is returning the rudra veena to its roots. Her mastery of this ancient instrument is awe-inspiring. For her, playing the veena isn’t just about music—it’s her way of fighting the pervasive misogyny in the Indian classical music community.
The album features two ragas spread across four sides, totalling over 90 minutes of mesmerizing music. Pal’s playing is both technically brilliant and deeply spiritual, evoking the full richness of the veena’s history. The rudra veena’s unique sound, with its deep, resonant bass and shimmering higher tones, creates a meditative yet intense listening experience.
This album is fearless. Pal unfolds the ragas with a confidence and speed that’s unusual for dhrupad, diving deep into the raginis and exploring them fully. If you’re curious about Indian classical music or looking for a deeply immersive listening experience, “The Holy Mother” is essential.
Favourite track: Todi
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Additional note: As if her music and story weren’t inspiring enough, not only did Madhuvanti Pal record the album herself in her apartment, but she also builds her own instruments, as each veena needs to be tailored specifically for its musician. This album is a powerful statement, both musically and culturally, showcasing her complete artistry from craftsmanship to performance.
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